“I am humbled and honored to have earned the vote of confidence by the great people of Minnesota’s 6th Congressional District,” Emmer said in a press release. “I am grateful for this opportunity and will not take it for granted.”

Emmer, a former lawyer, was first elected to the seat in 2014, after serving three terms (2004-2010) in the Minnesota House. Emmer sought the state’s executive office under the Republican banner in 2010, but failed to defeat current DFL Gov. Mark Dayton. After losing the gubernatorial race, Emmer was a conservative talk radio host. He sought the 6th District seat after Republican Rep. Michele Bachmann did not seek re-election.

Snyder, a U.S. Army veteran and union iron worker, claimed 34.2 percent of the vote (123,122).

When reached for comment, Snyder had not yet conceded and said his campaign would issue a press release.

For his part, Emmer said that he was optimistic by the number of voters that cast ballots on Election Day.

“Today, an incredible number of Americans showed up to the polls to cast their ballots in the 2016 general election,” Emmer said.

Emmer’s re-election continues a long string of conservative Republican wins in the 6th District – Michelle Bachmann held the seat from 2007 to 2014, and she was preceded by Mark Kennedy, who represented much of the current 6th District from 2003 to 2006.

Emmer said he was ready to get back to work representing the people of the 6th District.

“We had an extremely productive first term, and I look forward to continuing our efforts of reining in wasteful spending, reducing regulations affecting our daily lives and working to ensure the safety of all Americans.”